Right-Wing Activist Hadar Mukhtar Runs in Likud Primaries Despite Low Chances

Hadar Mukhtar, a right-wing activist and former chairwoman of the "Burning Youth" party, has officially submitted her candidacy for the upcoming Likud party primaries. Mukhtar, who gained online fame years ago through her videos and has recently been known for confrontations with left-wing protesters, aims to secure a Knesset seat in the next elections. However, her chances are slim as the Likud Constitution Conference recently allocated her faction's slot, "The New Woman," to the 48th position on the party list, a rank considered too low to realistically enter the Knesset based on current polls.

In an Instagram video, Mukhtar expressed her determination and pride in running, emphasizing the democratic nature of Likud primaries that allow individuals without prominent political backgrounds to compete. She acknowledged the challenges and mixed reactions she has faced but thanked her supporters and the "amazing Likud family" for their backing.

Her candidacy has drawn criticism from some within Likud, notably Knesset member Tali Gottlieb, who publicly opposed Mukhtar's inclusion on the list. Gottlieb accused Mukhtar of dishonesty regarding her personal background and questioned her loyalty to Likud's values, citing Mukhtar's encouragement of non-Likud voters to register in the party. Despite her reservations, Gottlieb wished Mukhtar success but stated she believes Mukhtar is not suitable for the list at this time.

Mukhtar's entry into the Likud primaries highlights ongoing tensions within the party over candidate selection and ideological alignment ahead of the elections. The primaries will determine the final party list for the Knesset race, with Mukhtar hoping to leverage grassroots support despite institutional hurdles.